In South Carolina, criminal offenses are split into two broad categories: Felony offenses and misdemeanor offenses. At Query Sautter & Uricchio, LLC, we defend the full range of criminal charges. Here, our Charleston criminal defense lawyer explains the differences between felonies and misdemeanors in South Carolina.
South Carolina Divides Crimes Into Felonies and Misdemeanors
There are two broad categories of crimes. In South Carolina, criminal offenses are classified as either felonies or misdemeanors based on their severity. Felonies are the most serious crimes and carry harsher penalties, including long-term imprisonment. Misdemeanors are still criminal offenses but are considered less serious and typically involve shorter jail terms or alternative sentencing. The classification plays a major role in how the justice system handles charges.
What to Know About Felony Charges in South Carolina
All felony charges are very serious criminal allegations. Notably, the state of South Carolina categorizes felonies into different classes (subcategories). There are felonies that are A through F. Class A is the most serious felony charge in South Carolina. A conviction for a Class A felony can lead to up to 30 years in prison. Lower-class felonies carry lesser penalties but still involve serious penalties. All felonies carry at least one year in state prison in South Carolina. If you were arrested and charged with a felony in Charleston, it is imperative that you speak to a lawyer right away.
An Overview of Misdemeanor Criminal Charges in South Carolina
Misdemeanors are divided into three classes in South Carolina (Class A, B, and C). Class A is the most serious. Some of the most common examples include driving under the influence (DUI), simple assault, or shoplifting of low-value items. A Class A misdemeanor can carry up to three years in jail. On the other hand, Class C misdemeanors may be punished by up to one year. Although the penalties are less than for felonies, a misdemeanor conviction can still affect your employment, housing, and education opportunities. Do not go it alone: You need an experienced Charleston misdemeanor criminal defense attorney.
Criminal Classification Impacts More Than Just Sentencing
Whether a charge is classified as a felony or misdemeanor affects every stage of the legal process. To start, bail is generally higher for felonies. It takes more money to get out of jail while you wait for the trial. Further, in South Carolina, prosecutors typically pursue felony allegations more aggressively. Another issue is that felony convictions remain on your record permanently and can trigger mandatory sentencing enhancements for future offenses. Finally, in South Carolina, certain felony convictions also make you ineligible for professional licenses or government benefits. With that being said, even a misdemeanor can leave a lasting record.
Contact Our South Carolina Criminal Defense Lawyer Today
At Query Sautter & Uricchio, LLC, our South Carolina criminal defense attorney handles both felony charges and misdemeanor charges. Charged with a crime in Charleston? We can help. Contact us right away for a completely confidential, no-obligation case review. From our Charleston law office, we represent defendants throughout South Carolina.